The effectiveness of personally tailored computer‐generated advice letters for smoking cessation

Abstract

Aim To assess the effectiveness of a new computer‐generated tailored advice programme designed to be used by smokers and recent quitters having problems staying stopped. Design Randomized trial comparing a series of questionnaire assessments leading to tailored computer‐generated advice letters mailed at strategically relevant times, to a no extra treatment control sent standardized printed self‐help materials. Setting Victoria, Australia. Participants A total of 1058 smokers or recent quitters recruited from callers to the Quitline. Measurements Smoking status and sustained abstinence at 12‐month follow‐up, plus extent of participation in the intervention. Findings Using a conservative analysis (missing data coded as a treatment failure), 6‐month sustained abstinence was reported by significantly more participants in the computer‐generated tailored advice (20%) than the standard printed materials condition (12%) at 12‐month follow‐up OR 1.82 (1.31–2.55)). Group differences in point prevalence abstinence (28% intervention, 25% control) were not significant. Among participants in the tailored advice condition, 6‐month sustained abstinence was associated with the number of advice letters received. Conclusion The provision of a series of tailored, computer‐generated advice letters resulted in greater rates of sustained cessation than for controls. A dose–response relationship was found, with increased compliance with the intervention associated with improved cessation outcomes. The programme appears to have much of its effect by preventing relapse.